Effectiveness of Self-Help Based Interventions for the Management of Depression: A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53366/jimki.v12i2.871Keywords:
Therapy, Depression, Self-help, Behavioral activation, Expressive writing, Mindfulness, Healthy lifestyleAbstract
Introduction: Depression is a mental health problem with a high prevalence and a risk of causing suicide. Limited access to professional services has driven the development of self-help interventions as a solution for managing depression. This literature review was conducted to examine commonly used self-help approaches, evaluate the evidence of their effectiveness, and identify their advantages, limitations, and implementation considerations.
Method: This study is a literature review of scientific articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses related to self-help interventions for depression. Sources reviewed include research articles, review papers, and current guidelines relevant within the past 15 years.
Discussion: The review indicates that several self-help approaches exist for addressing depression, such as mindfulness, expressive writing, behavioral activation, and healthy lifestyle practices. Some of these approaches have a positive effect on reducing depressive symptoms. Self-help methods offer advantages in terms of affordability, flexibility, and autonomy. However, there are limitations, including variability in the quality of interventions, lack of literacy and digital skills, and effectiveness that tends to be lower compared with therapy delivered by professional providers.
Conclusion: Self-help–based depression therapies can reduce depressive symptoms and improve emotional well-being when implemented correctly, in a structured way, and consistently; this approach is suitable as an initial intervention or as an adjunct when access to professional services is limited. However, further research is needed to standardize implementation protocols, evaluate long-term effectiveness, and develop effective strategies to maximize their benefits safely and sustainably.
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